Ingredients

  • 1 cup cold heavy cream
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
  • 1/3 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 (3.4-ounce) box pumpkin spice flavored instant pudding mix
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Spiced Pecans, recipe follows
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground orange peel
  • 1 pound pecan halves
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water

Method

  • Place the heavy cream into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk.
  • Whisk until medium peaks are formed, 1 to 2 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl whisk together the pumpkin puree and milk.
  • Add the pudding mix and vanilla and whisk to combine.
  • Fold in the whipped cream and thoroughly combine.
  • Transfer the mousse into 6 (7-ounce) dessert bowls or ramekins.
  • Place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to 4 before serving.
  • Coarsely chop the Spiced Pecans and sprinkle on top of the mousse just before serving.
  • Line a half sheet pan with parchment and set aside.
  • Mix the salt, cumin, cayenne, cinnamon and orange peel together in a small bowl and set aside.
  • Place the nuts in a 10-inch cast iron skillet and set over medium heat.
  • Toast, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes until they just start to brown.
  • Add the butter and stir until it melts.
  • Add the spice mixture and stir to combine.
  • Once combined, add the sugars and water, stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the nuts, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Transfer the nuts to the prepared sheet pan and separate them with a fork or spatula.
  • Allow the nuts to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
  • Yield: 1 pound pecans